Orlando Pirates are midway through the 2025/26 season, and it’s time to hand out the report cards.
This feature takes a look at how each of the club’s 12 new signings have performed so far, starting from the back all the way to the attacking line.
First up is central defender Lebone Seema, simply a remarkable success so far.
LEBONE SEEMA FROM TS GALAXY TO ORLANDO PIRATES
The Buccaneers didn’t make much noise when they secured Seema’s signature, but the football has done all the talking since.
Born in Alexandra, Johannesburg, the 22-year-old has slotted into the Buccaneers’ back line like he’s been there for years: calm, confident and completely unfazed by the stage.
Seema is a modern centre-back in every sense. He has a burning pace on the grass, he is comfortable stepping into midfield with the ball, and brave enough to break lines with his passing. His first goal for the club was nothing short of spectacular.
In several matches this season, he hasn’t just looked like Orlando Pirates’ best defender, he’s looked like the best player on the pitch, full stop.
The numbers back it up. Seema has featured in 18 of the Sea Robbers’ 24 matches in all competitions so far.
He arrived at Orlando Pirates after just one full season as a regular starter at TS Galaxy, where he made 20 appearances last term. At the Rockets, he was a third-choice option, playing behind Samukelo Kabini and Khulumani Ndamane.
BENCHING NKOSINATHI SIBISI
Remarkably, Seema has pushed Orlando Pirates captain and Bafana Bafana’s top-class defender Nkosinathi Sibisi onto the bench.
Without doubt, Seema has been unlucky to miss out on Bafana Bafana selection so far. Given his age, he will wear yellow and green sooner than later.
For Orlando Pirates, this feels like elite-level scouting.
Mid-term report card: Outstanding – 9/10.
